Shepparton sparkles as Italian festa lights up the night

By Pip Turton

Mar 31, 2025

Tony Caruso Trio band members Sebastiano Monaco and Antonio Caruso. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

The Shepparton Italian Festa transformed the Shepparton Showgrounds into a vibrant celebration of Italian culture on Saturday, March 29.

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The venue was adorned with traditional red, white and green decorations as visitors gathered from noon to experience authentic Italian cuisine and entertainment.

Popular food vendors, including 400 Gradi, Abruzzo Lab, Arancini Art and Dolci Momenti, offered a diverse range of Italian delicacies.

Entertainment featured roving performer Antonio Caruso, while former Australian Idol contestant Cosima De Vito delivered an exclusive Italian set accompanied by the DeBellis Showband.

The car and motorcycle show wasn’t as big as hoped due to the rain that dominated the morning; however, a number of vehicles did arrive later in the afternoon as the weather cleared up.

Car brands on show included Alfa Romeo, Maserati and Ferrari. The Shannon’s Best Italian Car award was given to Hiro for the second time running for his spectacular 1989 Ferrari 328.

Film professional and historian Leo Notarianni’s award for special interest went to the Maserati 222 Twin Turbo Coupe for its rarity.

Motorcycles on display included several Ducatis and an Aprilia.

DJ Lady Bove kept the crowds of families and friends dancing with mixed sets until nightfall.

The annual festival concluded with a spectacular 12-minute fireworks display illuminating the Shepparton sky.

News photographer Rechelle Zammit went along to capture the festivities.